Waterloo Light Rail Transit System

Our Client: Region of Waterloo

Project Snapshot

The LRT, known as ION, will ultimately connect the three major urban centres of Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo. Birnie Electric was awarded a $6.5-million contract under a Public-Private Partnership (P3) to provide design-assist electrical services with AECOM along with installations for a new maintenance and repair facility and 19 LRT stations.

Stage 1 of the project will see light rail trains running on 19 kilometres of track from Conestoga Mall in Waterloo to Fairview Park Mall in Kitchener by 2017. Birnie Electric is working with Aecon, a member of GrandLinq, the consortium awarded the overall contract.

Phase 1 includes a main building that will house offices, computer facility as well as a maintenance and repairs shop. A second building houses wash equipment for the rail cars, with a third building for storage and some maintenance equipment. Two of the 19 LRT stations include a driver facility.

Completion Date

October 2016

Construction Cost

Overall: $818 million

Electrical: $6.5 million

Contribution to Success

Our experienced design team worked closely with Aecon to provide a solution that meets budgets while meeting specific building requirements. This was accomplished under tight time constraints.

Electrical Safety Authority

About Birnie

Started in 1967, Birnie Electric has built a reputation for quality and reliable service as a premier electrical contractor.
With a seasoned team of skilled design engineers, CAD designers, supervisors, foremen, service technicians and electricians, we provide the dedication, technical knowledge and competence to get the job done right.
Birnie Electric is bondable to any level required.